Bolt-action rifle misfiring

[traveler106]

Hello,

I have a Ruger 77/22 bolt-action rifle. The rifle is old (my dad got it for me in 1983 or '84), but it's in very good condition. It almost looks like it's new. It also hasn't been fired very much.

Anyway, I took it to the range last week and today, and I had quite a few misfires. It probably misfired about one out of every 15 rounds. The misfired cartridges were dented, so the firing pin was hitting them. Last week was the first time I fired it in years, and my dad and I have always cleaned it after every trip to the range.

I'm using Remington .22 LR high velocity and Remington .22 LR hollow points.

Does anyone have any ideas about why my rifle is misfiring?

Thanks

 

[mete]

'First time in years ' ? did you clean it first ? Cheap oil can oxidize and form varnish which will bind the firing pin. Take apart the bolt ,clean thoroughly with solvent,lightly lube with a good oil.

 

[traveler106]

Thanks for the tip

I actually did just what you suggested right after I got home from the range today, so we'll see if that did the trick when I take it out again next week.

Thanks again

 

[Jim K]

I hope that ammo hasn't been sitting around since '82. If so, expect misfires.

Jim